Delhi Air Quality Index Surges Past 250, Raising Health Concerns

Delhi's air quality index (AQI) climbed above 250 on Monday, placing the city in the hazardous category for air pollution. The rise was attributed to a combination of vehicular emissions, industrial activity and stagnant weather conditions that trapped pollutants over the National Capital Region. Health officials urged residents to limit outdoor exposure, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments. The government has activated emergency response protocols, including opening temporary medical camps and issuing advisories to schools and offices. The spike follows a trend of worsening air quality in the city over the past weeks, with several days already recording AQI levels above 200.